Expressions Quote by Frances Burney
![“Another gentleman ... desired to know if I was engaged, or would honour him with my hand [to dance]. So he was pleased to say, tho... Another gentleman ... desired to know if I was engaged, or would honour him with my hand [to dance]. So he was pleased to say, though I am sure I know not what…” quote by Frances Burney](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f30/frances-burney-38055_quote_another-gentleman-desired-to-know-if-i-w_1193227.jpg)
““Another gentleman ... desired to know if I was engaged, or would honour him with my hand [to dance]. So he was pleased to say, tho... Another gentleman ... desired to know if I was engaged, or would honour him with my hand [to dance]. So he was pleased to say, though I am sure I know not what honour he could receive from me; but these sort of expressions, I find, are used as words of course, without any distinction of persons, or study of propriety.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Evelina by Frances Burney, 1778
A gentleman seeks a dance, but the speaker doubts the propriety and meaning of such social rituals.
In simple terms: Questioning social customs and their relevance.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on the purpose of social conventions.
Themes
social etiquette
courtship
uncertainty
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
literary
historical
When to use this quote
- ballroom dance
- courtship negotiations
- social gatherings
- personal boundaries
Key Concepts
ritual
social performance
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you follow social rules without questioning?
- What value do you find in traditional customs?
A Different Perspective
Rigid etiquette can stifle genuine connection.
